The holiday season can be difficult for youth who have experienced foster care. It can stir emotions of loss and disappointment with a longing for what could be. But thanks to our mentors and caring community, something different is happening this season—our youth are experiencing moments of joy, belonging and hope.
From our first-ever Friendsgiving to holiday gifts from Friends of Aging UP and our annual Holiday meetUP, we are sprinkling in special moments that remind our youth that they matter and belong.
WHY YOUR SUPPORT MATTERS NOW
During the hustle and bustle of the holidays, many often pause to think about others—strangers and neighbors who may be in need or struggling. That’s why it’s the most generous time of the year. Nonprofits of all sizes rely on the generosity of this season to sustain their work. Aging UP is no exception, and every gift matters!
As we embark on the New Year, we aim to welcome 5 new teens into the program by early 2026. This means we need to raise $25,000 between GivingTuesday (Dec 2) and December 31. Thanks to our Board of Directors, $2,500 of GivingTuesday donations will be matched! End-of-year funding kickstarts the investments needed to help us reach our vision of serving 100 youth annually and expanding our young adult services through age 26 by 2030.
5 MEANINGFUL WAYS TO MAKE AN IMPACT
As you reflect this holiday season, we invite you to join our caring community by supporting youth from foster care in one—or more—of these impactful ways:
⭐ Invest Financially: Your gift creates year-round hope through mentorship, recreational experiences, and hands-on adulting support. Every dollar counts! Invest online, through PayPal or by mail (PO Box 293504, Sacramento, CA 95829)
⭐ Request In-honor Gifts: When loved ones ask what you want this year, share that they can donate in your honor. You’ll receive a card acknowledging the gift, and everyone will feel great about it!
⭐ Host a Holiday Drive: Hosting a party? Invite friends to bring cash or gift cards for our program. Gift cards will go directly to youth, providing autonomy, choice and a sense of independence.
⭐ Volunteer Your Time: Explore volunteer opportunities, from becoming a mentor to sharing your skills in unique ways to support our mission.
⭐ Give from our Amazon Wish List: Purchase items from our wish list that support our teens or our program, and they’ll be sent directly to us on your behalf.
CREATE A SEASON FILLED WITH HOPE
Your investment of time, talent or treasure helps ensure local youth from foster care grow into happy, healthy, self-sufficient adults.
If you’re ready to make a difference or want to explore ways to give, please contact Community Director April at april@agingup.org.
Together, we can make the holidays matter. Join us—before December 31—and give hope to teens who deserve it most.
